THINGS TO DO: 7 family friendly activities to do in Brisbane

08 January 2019

Living in Southeast Queensland we are blessed with an abundance of amazing kid-friendly destinations. From shaded bushwalks and idyllic beaches, to world-famous theme parks and secret swimming holes, your family-friendly summer is right here.

Explore Southbank

Southbank is a family-friendly mecca, with plenty for young and old. At the western end you’ll find the Queensland Museum with fun exhibitions and interactive science experiences. Then take a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane to see the sights of the city from the sky. If you need cool off, head to Aquativity, the city’s fabulous water-play area and man-made beach. You’ll find a huge choice of cafes around too, or pack picnic and relax along the banks of the river.

Workshops Rail Museum

A must-do destination for any train-loving kid, the Workshops Rail Museum is Australia’s oldest railway workshops still in operation. With hands-on exhibits and multi-media encounters, the larger-than-life museum bring history to life with huge steam locomotives and massive industrial machinery. Pack a picnic, or stay for lunch at one of Ipswich’s many eateries. Once a month there is also the chance to ride the steam train as part of Steam Train Sunday. Check website for details. North Street, North Ipswich

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Just 12km from the city centre, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary. Hand-feed kangaroos, hold a koala, and meet a large variety of Australian wildlife in beautiful, natural settings. If you aren’t in a rush, leave the car at home and make a day of it by catching the ferry from Southbank. The cruise takes you through some of the city’s most historic landscapes and iconic attractions with entertaining commentary along the way. 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket koala.net/en-au

Roma Street Parkland

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

Set in the middle of the city, Roma Street Parkland is a beautiful green space with something for everyone. Relax amongst the tranquil gardens and water features, wander the many boardwalks and paths, take a ride on the Parkland Explorer mini-train, then head to the playground with flying foxes, cubbies, bridges, climbing equipment and hedge garden.

Brisbane Botanic Gardens

Image: Tourism and Events Queensland

At the base of Mt Coot-tha, the Brisbane Botanic Gardens is a wonderful subtropical escape from the city. With a Tropical Dome, Cactus Zone, Bonsai House, Hide n’ Seek children’s trail and a Japanese Garden, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained. Once you are done exploring the gardens, nearby is the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, where kids can learn about the stars and planets with interactive shows and the recreations of the night sky in the cosmic skydome.

The Cube, QUT

The Cube is a free experience, consisting of 48 multi-touch screens soaring across two storeys. As one of the world’s largest digital interactive learning and display spaces, visitors can explore big questions of the 21st century, or just have fun!

Day Trip and Dolphin Feeding at Tangalooma Island Resort

Perfect for a day trip or overnight stay, Tangalooma Island Resort is on Moreton Island – just a short cruise from Brisbane. There’s stacks to do on the island: sandboarding, snorkelling the wrecks, water sports and a playground, as well as a choice of eco ranger shows. The resort has plenty of food and drink options. If you can stay overnight (or catch the later boat back), there is the opportunity hand-feed the dolphins at sunset, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Top of the list of any visit to the Sunshine Coast is a trip to Sea Life. We chat to Malcolm Westwood, one of four Senior Seal Trainers, to find out more about life behind the scenes at the much-loved seal show.